Overview
Neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS) refer to a range of mental and emotional issues that can be observed through how patients move, perform daily tasks, and express feelings on their faces. In this study, the investigators want to find ways to accurately and unobtrusively track these symptoms in people's homes over time. Our goals are to note when these symptoms happen, predict potential problems, and gather clear data to help doctors make accurate diagnoses.
To do this, the investigators will first collect information from participants who have in-home sensors. the investigators will then use special computer programs that can recognize everyday activities and identify features that connect to scores from the Mild Behavioral Impairment Checklist (MBI-C). These scores will be compared to a questionnaire (NPIQ) filled out by caregivers or family members, along with any relevant information from doctors about the patients' symptoms. The investigators aim to see how these features can help differentiate between types of NPS, such as mood changes and agitation.
Finally, the investigators will create a dashboard for doctors that summarizes the patterns of these symptoms in patients, making it easier to monitor and manage their mental health.
Description
What the investigators would need from participants:
- Collect the participants' own data of daily activities from a room in participants home such as the participant's living room via a small camera the investigators provide for no less than 7 days and up to 30 days. The participant will have full control over the camera to turn on and off.
- The participant and a loved one will regularly answer short surveys asking about the participant's mood and daily functioning.
- At the end of agreed observation period, return the memory card of the participant's collected data from the camera in person or pre-paid FedEx envelope.
Eligibility
Inclusion criteria:
- Age 65+ years old
- Any age and ethnicity.
- With or without, or at risk of mild to moderate dementia and healthy controls.
- Availability of a study partner (informant) who has contact with the patient at least once a week (this can also be the surrogate/LAR but does not necessarily have to be)
Exclusion criteria:
- Those with severe mobility impairments
- participants in non-home settings (skilled nursing facilities, etc.).